Wrapped in Spirit: DJDS Students Find Joy in Neo-Chasidic Judaism

Denver Jewish Day School is experiencing a student-led revival of Chasidic Judaism, bringing joy, spirituality, and new practices into daily Jewish life. Walking the hallways, students can now find a tefillin table, new zemirot books, lively singing, and increased Minyan attendance.

The movement is driven by students, including seniors Holden Demain and Eli Benel, sophomore Zeke Brooks, and freshman Max Raphaly, who have spearheaded what they call the “Neo-Chasidic Movement.”

“I don’t think being Chasidic means you are more Jewish,” said Student Council Director of Jewish Life Eli Benel. “Being Chasidic is more about the spirituality of Judaism, which can appeal to you regardless of religiosity. People are searching for more spirituality in their lives.” 

Many of these initiatives are supported by the Student Council. Council members help set up tefillin tables during snack breaks, normalize wearing tzitzit, sell Nachman kippot, and lead joyful zemirot. On Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, students can wrap tefillin during snack breaks. Brooks describes the experience as “beautiful” and enjoys helping others wrap.

Minyan attendance has grown significantly on Friday mornings, prompting a move from the AMCHA Judaic Library to the Lowinger Family Commons. Benel noted, “Minyan is growing,” and the demand for doughnuts has surged, with two dozen disappearing in minutes.

Student Council also hosts a monthly “Pre-Shabbas Pump Up,” giving students a chance to reflect on the week and prepare for Shabbat. A zemirot Wednesday class has become a highlight for many. “It’s really fun to incorporate singing into Jewish life,” DJDS sophomore Emma Loewenthal said. “It lets people learn tunes while exploring Jewish culture.”

The Student Council began selling Rabbi Nachman kippot, which quickly sold out. Seventh grader Boris Berenynskyi said, “I like wearing my Rabbi Nachman kippa; it reminds me of Jews who visited Rabbi Nachman's grave.” Students have also been seen dancing to Rebbi Nachman Leuman's music in the halls.

Not all students share that perspective. Sophomore Noah Kutnick said, “I think it is being framed as making the school 'more Jewish,' but it is impossible to be ‘more Jewish’ than another Jew. I think this can be damaging to the school’s pluralistic approach to Judaism.”

Demain emphasized that participation is optional. “The key to Jewish engagement, and engagement in anything, is to make it optional. I really want to make sure it’s there for people. I love it, Eli loves it, my friends love it, and I just want to allow it for people.”

The Neo-Chasidic movement has become a visible part of DJDS life, offering students new ways to engage with Jewish practice while remaining optional for those who choose not to participate.